Ernest Wilbur (E.W.) Hallett (1882-1983) and Jessie F. Hallett (1891-1976) came from humble beginnings. Both were born and grew up in small communities in Minnesota. Married in 1911, the Halletts made Crosby, Minnesota their permanent home. Here, they established the Crosby Hardware and Furniture Co., which Mr. Hallett owned and operated until the waning years of life. Crosby was also the headquarters for the Hallett Construction Co., one of the Midwest's largest and most respected paving and construction firms.

"Mr. Hallett" as even his closest associates fondly knew him, organized the First National Bank of Crosby and served as its president for many years. Throughout their sixty-five year marriage, Jessie was his closest confidant. Together, they became highly successful business entrepreneurs, developing over two-dozen materials and construction related companies across the United States.

The Halletts were very active and supportive of their community. They contributed generously to education, community projects, youth programs, and civic initiatives, including the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library and the Cuyuna Regional Medical Center.